Tooth decay is a prevalent issue in the dental industry, and most preventative dental care is geared towards preventing cavities. School aged children are especially prone to cavities, but adults suffer from tooth decay, as well. Some people are more susceptible than others due to diet, poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, medications, or genetics.
There are a number of ways to prevent tooth decay, namely at-home care and visiting your dentist for regular teeth cleanings and exams. However, for patients who are still likely to develop cavities, there are additional treatments available to help lessen the risk.
Sealants are a dental treatment specifically designed to prevent cavities. Dental sealants are essentially a protective layer that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of teeth, smoothing out pits and fissures that collect food debris. They are quite effective at preventing tooth decay because they reduce the chances of food particles getting stuck on your teeth and leading to acid build-up, which destroys enamel and eats away at teeth.
Dental sealants are most often applied to molars and premolars, since these teeth are the most susceptible to cavities, but they can be used on other teeth, as well.
Who Can Get Dental Sealants
All patients can have dental sealants applied at any time, however, sealants are often applied to the first molars, which emerge around six years of age, and the second set which emerge around the age of twelve. Dental sealants for kids are popular and effective, especially because children are more susceptible to cavities than adults. However, while dental sealants for adults may not be as common, they are equally effective at preventing cavities.
The Application Process
The process of applying sealants is painless, fast, and simple. The application steps are as follows:
- The tooth or teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried
- An acidic solution is applied to the tooth’s surface to help the sealant bond to the enamel
- The solution is rinsed away after a few seconds and the tooth is dried again
- The sealant material is painted onto the enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. (A curing light may be used to harden the material, or it will air dry. This part of the process depends on the type of sealant used).
With proper care and good dental hygiene, sealants can last several years. Your dentist will check them during regular dental exams to make sure they are not lifting away from teeth.
Visit Beyond Smiles of Park Ridge for Dental Sealants
If you are interested in dental sealants for yourself or a family member, visit Beyond Smiles of Park Ridge. Our team is here to help you maintain optimal dental health and make the best decisions for your smile. Schedule an appointment with us online, or call us at (847) 292-2700 today.